Walpole Island’s Michele Day is a familiar face in the Dialysis Unit at Chatham-Kent Health Alliance.
In fact, she’s been a patient there for the past two decades.
The unit and Day recently celebrated a significant milestone in patient care, marking 20 years of dialysis treatment.
In 2005, Day began her dialysis treatments at CKHA and today continues to thrive with hope and a positive attitude, serving as an inspiration to others facing similar health challenges.
“I want other people to know they have a chance and to say, ‘it’s not the end of the world,’” she said in a media release.
Day has embraced a disciplined approach to her health and well-being by maintaining a specialized diet, incorporating traditional Indigenous food as well as healing practices into her daily routine, according to hospital officials. She recognizes their importance in supporting her journey through dialysis care.
“Our dialysis team is dedicated to supporting the holistic care needs of patients, understanding that this approach leads to improved patient outcomes,” said Jarrod Prieur, director of medicine, complex continuing care, stroke, rehabilitation services and chronic disease for CKHA. “Michele’s long-term success underscores the impact of a comprehensive and well-managed approach to dialysis care. We are proud to celebrate this milestone with Michele and her family.”
Through a combination of adherence to a specialized renal diet, family support, traditional healing practices and the guidance of her health-care team, Day maintains a stable and active lifestyle.
